Nate’s Wish List

Please tell me that I’m not the only one that struggles with buying gifts for dudes.  It doesn’t help that my dude is super picky.  I mean, he did pick me.  Only the finest.

Nate did do a decent job on his wish list this year.  Thank goodness he took a liking to photography.

Maybe his list will give you ideas for the wonderful men in your life!

1. Lacoste Green Cologne for Men 2. Roku Box  3. Nikon SB-400 AF Speedlight Flash  4.  Samsung Vehicle Navigation Car Mount  5. Tiffen 62mm Neutral Density 0.9 Filter  6. Nikon 50mm f/1.8G AF-S NIKKOR Lens  7.  Grey Card Set  8.  Sennheiser CX 215 3.5mm Connector Ear-Canal Headphone

Don’t ask me what half of it is.  Because I don’t know.

I haven’t purchased his gift yet but I think I have it narrowed down.

What are you getting the special dudes in your life?  Do share the gift idea wealth!

Michelle’s Wish List

Do you have a hard time coming up with a holiday wish list for your family?  Or does your family not do that sort of thing?

Our families are list people.  I think lists can sometimes remove some of the thoughtfulness of gift giving but they do serve a purpose.  I would prefer to spend money on a item that I know a family member is going to like.  Such a conundrum.

Pinterest has made my wish list keeping a lot easier.  I see something I like, I pin it.  No more scrambling at the last minute to make a list.  Yay for something else promoting laziness on my part!

One of my favorite things about blogging is discovering new ideas/items/products that I didn’t know existed.  To pass on that helpfulness, here’s a CliffsNotes version of my 2011 Wish List.  Maybe you will come up with a gift idea or two…or just add to your own list!

1. JCrew Lodge moccasins  2. Fossil Vintage Re-issue Weekender  3. Target Home Down Comforter  4. Q and A a Day: 5 Year Journal  5. Fiesta 4 piece Dinnerware Set (Black and Ivory)  6. West Elm Owl Measuring Cups  7. Ingrid Address Stamp by Lettergirl  8. Vintage Pyrex (photo source) 9. TOMS classic (Ash) 10. Anthropologie Petite Filigree Drops  11. Old Navy Military-Style Cardigan

(If you’re really bored, you can check out my full list here!)

Tomorrow I’ll share with you Nate’s list in case you are having trouble coming up with ideas for the dudes in your life!

Are you a wish list maker?  Or do you make the family guess? Any unique gift giving traditions? What’s the top item on your want list?  What gift idea are you most excited about giving (if you can share)?  How many more questions can I come up with?

Cracked Sugar Cookies

Anyone else super behind on life and blogging right now?  Okay, good.

Anyone want to eat cookies because they are behind on life..and blogging?  Okay, good.

Anyone just want to curl up and and nap with Ike (who is also recovering from the long week-end)?…

It’s Dare to DIY time over at NewlyWoodwards.  This week’s challenge is “Dare to Eat Cookies”.  Can do!  “Dare to Eat Cookies and then Nap”…totally in.

Cracked sugar cookies are a family favorite.  They have a nice buttery sugary taste that everyone loves. I like how festive they look with their red and green sprinkles.  I’m a sucker for sprinkles…and sugar…and butter.  It’s about time to intensify my workout routine.  Darn you sprinkles.

Cracked Sugar Cookies

• 2 c. sugar
• 1/2 c. shortening
• 1/2 c. butter
• 3 egg yolks
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 2 c. flour
• 1 tsp. soda
• 1 tsp. cream of tartar

Cream sugar, shortening, and butter. Beat in 3 egg yolks and vanilla.  Blend in flour, soda, and cream of tartar. Roll into balls, roll in sugar. Sprinkle the top of the cookies with colored sugar. Bake at 300 ~20 minutes. Eat up!

Be sure to check out all of the other lovely recipes over at NewlyWoodwards!

How was your holiday week-end?